Pre-initiated tips for handheld laser surgical devices and methods related to the same

ABSTRACT

Pre-initiated tips for handheld laser surgical devices and methods related to the same are disclosed herein. Some embodiments include a handpiece device including a tubular body; and an insert that fits within the tubular body, the insert having a terminal end that comprises a receiver. A disposable tip couples with the terminal end of the receiver, and the disposable tip has a fiber optic conduit extending from a sheath tip. In some instances the fiber tip is pre-initiated with a pigment.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/357,995, filed on Nov. 21, 2016, which claims the benefitand priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/259,025, filedon Nov. 23, 2015, each of which are hereby incorporated by referenceherein including all references and appendices cited therein, for allpurposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present technology is directed to medical devices, and moreparticularly, but not by way of limitation, to apparatuses that compriseselectively dimmable and transparent displays. Methods for controllingthe selective dimming of the displays and laser pulse control andselection are also provided herein.

SUMMARY

According to some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to anapparatus, comprising: a handpiece device comprising: a tubular body;and an insert that fits within the tubular body, the insert having aterminal end that comprises: a receiver; a light source disposed on aterminal end of the insert, the light source being offset from thereceiver; and a disposable tip that couples with the terminal end of thereceiver, the disposable tip comprising: an optical ferrule that coupleswith the receiver of the insert; and a light emitting cap that receiveslight from the light source of the insert and illuminates a surgicalsite.

According to some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to anapparatus, comprising: a transparent light emitting cap having asubstantially conical shape, the transparent light emitting capconfigured to couple with a rear terminal end of a receiver; an opticalferrule extending from the rear terminal end, the optical ferruleconfigured to receive an optical fiber; a sheath tip extending from thetransparent light emitting cap; a fiber optic conduit extending from thesheath tip; and a fiber tip disposed on a terminal end of the fiberoptic conduit.

According to some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to amethod, comprising: obtaining a disposable tip comprising a fiber opticelement having a fiber tip; and pre-initiating the fiber tip with a darkpigment comprising an ink.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Certain embodiments of the present technology are illustrated by theaccompanying figures. It will be understood that the figures are notnecessarily to scale and that details not necessary for an understandingof the technology or that render other details difficult to perceive maybe omitted. It will be understood that the technology is not necessarilylimited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an example apparatus constructed inaccordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an example printed circuit board foruse in accordance with the apparatuses of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2A is a schematic view of an example electroluminescent display ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 2B is an example control panel used to control the apparatus anddisplay of FIGS. 1A and 2A.

FIG. 3A illustrates a portion of the electroluminescent display thatincludes a power dial indicator that can receive touch based input.

FIG. 3B illustrates a portion of the electroluminescent display havingtraces and light emitting segments.

FIG. 4 illustrates several views of a laser handle device of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an example method of controlling anelectroluminescent display of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of another example method of controlling anelectroluminescent display of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 discloses example code that is used to implement variouselectroluminescent display control methods.

FIG. 8A is a flowchart of a method for pre-initiating a fiber tip.

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of a pre-initiated tip.

FIG. 9A is a flowchart of an example method for pre-initiating a fibertip using a substrate.

FIG. 9B is perspective view of a process for pre-initiating a fiber tipusing a substrate.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a process for pre-initiating a fibertip using a push or pull fiber patch.

FIG. 10B is perspective view of a process for pre-initiating a fiber tipusing a push or pull fiber patch.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a fiber optic element having atranslucent sleeve comprising a plurality of apertures.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the fiber optic element of FIG. 11 inuse, such as processing a tissue.

FIGS. 13A-13C collectively illustrate an example disposable tip with atranslucent cap having apertures.

FIG. 14 is a schematic of an example computing device, all or portionsof which can be used to practice aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Generally, the present disclosure includes medical apparatuses thatinclude selectively dimmable displays. Example medical apparatusesinclude laser pulse devices used for dental procedures that involveteeth and gum cleaning, as well as oral surgical intervention andrepair.

These apparatuses include selectively dimmable displays, which include,but are not limited to electroluminescent displays. In some embodiments,the electroluminescent displays include transparent displays that areselectively controlled to display selectable laser power and/or laserpulse settings for operating a pulsed laser. In some embodiments, thelaser power settings can be associated with specific dental proceduressuch as frenectomy, gingivectomy, molar exposure, and toothwhitening—just to name a few. To be sure, the apparatuses can utilizeselective control of laser power and laser pulse width and/or pulsetiming to allow the user to perform various dental procedures.

FIG. 1A generally illustrates an example medical apparatus 100 thatcomprises a housing 102, a laser source 103, a control panel 104supported on the housing 102, a laser surgical handpiece device 106coupled to the housing 102, and an electroluminescent display 108. Insome embodiments, the apparatus 100 is selectively controlled by use ofa foot switch 107. The foot switch 107 can be used to activate and/ordeactivate the delivery of electrical energy from the apparatus 100after the user has set up the apparatus 100. Specifics on setting up theapparatus 100 are provided below. In one embodiment, the foot switch 107can communicatively couple with the apparatus 100 over a wired orwireless link 109. In some embodiments the foot switch 107 comprises ashroud that prevents accidental laser activation. The housing 102comprises the controlling circuitry that powers and operates aspects ofthe laser source 103 and the electroluminescent display 108. In someembodiments, the laser surgical handpiece device 106 is coupled with thelaser source using a cable that shields and protects a fiber optic (orother) laser guide medium.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 1B, the laser source 103comprises a laser diode module that generates electrical energy that isdelivered through an optical cable 105 to the laser surgical handpiecedevice 106, which is described in greater detail infra. The laser source103 can be mounted onto a printed circuit board 101 that also comprisesthe microprocessors, power supplies, and other circuit components of theapparatus 100. The laser diode module 103 is selected from any suitablelaser diode module that is capable of producing laser output that issufficient to perform the medical procedures described herein.

FIG. 2A illustrates the electroluminescent display 108 in greaterdetail. FIG. 2B illustrates an example control panel used to selectoperational aspects of the apparatus 100. FIGS. 2A and 2B arecollectively referred to in the paragraphs below. The electroluminescentdisplay 108 can include an at least partially transparent display thatillustrates various operational modes for the medical apparatus 100. Insome embodiments, the medical apparatus 100 can provide the user withlists of selectable operational modes 110 organized into categories suchas general dentistry, orthodontics, and hygiene. Each of thesecategories can include individual operational modes such as troughing,fibroma, and so forth. The operational modes will correspond to aspecific setting or group of settings that control how the medicalapparatus 100 operates. Again, this can include power and/or laser pulsesettings. In some embodiments, the operational modes can be listed andranked according to power level.

In some embodiments the electroluminescent display 108 is comprises aunique transparent electroluminescent area that can provide extremelyhigh resolution viewing angles from up to 170 degrees of field of view.The electroluminescent display 108 in some embodiments comprises asubstrate material having over 80% transparency and an archedconfiguration of 32 degrees for optimal viewing angle from any direction(other configurations are also likewise contemplated). Illumination ofthe electroluminescent display 108 is generated by a thin film, lessthan a micron thick, of specially designed electroluminescent phosphor,which is described in greater detail with respect to FIG. 3B.

In more detail, the apparatus 100 can implement an electronic keypasscode. When the user turns the apparatus on, the passcode key screenwill be displayed at the bottom center of the electroluminescent display108. The correct passcode sequence should be entered on the controlpanel 104 as illustrated and described in FIGS. 2A and 2B collectively.For example the passcode can include a series of directional arrowinputs on a navigation pane 113 of the control panel 104.

When the apparatus 100 is turned on, and the electronic passcode isproperly input the apparatus 100 prompts the user with voiceconfirmation “Please select wavelength” and two flashing wavelengthrings 115 and 117 to select the desired wavelength of choice. Theapparatus 100 can operate in three wavelength modes: 810 nm (nanometers)alone, 980 nm alone, or dual wavelength. A wavelength mode is selectedbefore proceeding further, but may be changed at any time.

In some embodiments, the laser source 103 of the apparatus 100 canoutput up to a maximum of 2.0 Watts of average power. To adjust thepower setting manually, the user can touch the UP and DOWN or the LEFTand RIGHT arrows on the control panel 104. Each touch of an arrow raisesor lowers the power level by 0.1 watts (other increments can be used).Touching and holding an arrow will increase the speed in which the powerlevel is raised or lowered. The user touches the button 119 to put thelaser in active mode and depress the foot switch 107 (see FIG. 1) toactivate the laser source 103.

The ACTIVE/STANDBY button 119 selection serves a dual purpose. Itactivates (ACTIVE) and deactivates (STANDBY) the laser. By default, thesystem powers up in Standby mode. The laser source 103 cannot beactivated prior to selecting a wavelength in some embodiments. Each timethe ACTIVE/STANDBY button 119 is touched, the apparatus 100 togglesbetween Active and Standby modes. There is an audio confirmation (unlessvoice confirmation is muted), and an icon for either “ACTIVE” or“STANDBY” is displayed near each wavelength indicator. The red aimingbeam and tip illumination of the laser surgical handpiece device 106 arevisible only when the laser is in Active mode. These features aredescribed in greater detail below. Thus, in some embodiments, the lasersurgical handpiece device 106 can output a colored aiming light thatprovides a pinpoint dot of light in the direction where the tip of thelaser surgical handpiece device 106 will impact.

When the apparatus 100 is in Active mode, touching any selection otherthan UP and DOWN or LEFT and RIGHT will return the apparatus 100 to theStandby mode. When the foot switch 107 is depressed in the Active mode,the outer indicator ring around each wavelength ring 115 and 117 on theelectroluminescent display 108 flashes to provide a visual indicationthat the laser surgical handpiece device 106 is firing. The apparatus100 can also output an audio beep when the laser surgical handpiecedevice 106 is being fired. For safety purposes, a laser firing delay of0.25 seconds can be implemented in order to prevent accidentalactivation.

In some embodiments a PROCEDURES button 123 is selected to bring uppreset or pre-programmed procedures (operational settings) on theelectroluminescent display 108. A collection of pre-programmedprocedures will be revealed on the electroluminescent display 108.Selecting the LEFT and RIGHT arrows will toggle between GENERALDENTISTRY, ORTHODONTICS or HYGIENE categories. Selecting the UP and DOWNarrows will toggle between procedures within each category. Thecorresponding power setting for each procedure is displayed on thecentral numerical power level value 121 when the procedure ishighlighted. In some embodiments, the user can customize settings forthe apparatus 100 in order to fine tune pre-programmed procedures and/orselect settings de novo. The settings can include individual settingsfor power, pulse width, and the like.

In some embodiments, users can select volume levels for audible feedbackfrom the apparatus 100 using button 125. In one embodiment the user canutilize an aiming light button 127 and the navigation pane 113 toactivate the aiming light of the laser surgical handpiece device 106,while a button 129 is used to activate tip illumination of the lasersurgical handpiece device 106. The use of dual wavelength laser lightcan be selected using button 131.

With respect to specifically programmed operational modes, when asurgeon starts to perform laser procedures for the first time, often itis difficult to know the exact power settings for a particularprocedure. Several procedures use different settings and it is almostimpossible for the clinician to memorize all power settings, specially,if the clinician performs procedures that broads more than onespecialty, such as General Dentistry or Orthodontics.

The apparatus 100 provides a menu with commonly used procedures alreadypre-programmed with laser power and pulse settings for that particularprocedure. The apparatus 100 is also programmed with specialty featureswhich allow different clinicians from different specialties to haveaccess to pre-set procedures. The correct power, pulse, and frequency(e.g., duration) are already loaded into the display.

In one embodiment, the user selects the option “Procedures”. Whenselected, the pre-set procedures menu will be displayed on theelectroluminescent display 108. As the user toggles between proceduresand specialties, a preview of the power settings is shown on the displayfor easy reading of power.

A collection of pre-programmed procedures (e.g., operational modes) willbe revealed on the display. Selecting the LEFT and RIGHT arrows allowsfor the user to toggle between GENERAL DENTISTRY, ORTHODONTICS orHYGIENE categories. Selecting the UP and DOWN arrows allows for the userto toggle between procedures within each category. The correspondingpower setting for each procedure is displayed on the Power Indicatorwhen the procedure is highlighted.

The user can also manually select a power or operational level ratherthan selecting a listed operational mode by taping or otherwise touchinga power indicator dial 112. In some embodiments, the user can utilize adigital or touch input sliders to selectively adjust luminance of alight source within the laser surgical handpiece device 106, as will bedescribed below with respect to FIG. 4.

In some embodiments, the electroluminescent display 108 is controlled bya plurality of microprocessors that control various segments of theelectroluminescent display 108. An example microprocessor is illustratedand described with respect to FIG. 8. In some embodiments, themicroprocessors can selectively dim portions of the electroluminescentdisplay 108 to indicate a power level on the power indicator dial 112.For example, a portion of the power indicator dial increments, such asincrement 114 are illuminated to a greater extent than remainingincrements. By way of example, if troughing is selected as anoperational mode, the power indicator dial 112 can brighten indicatorsthat extend to around a power level of 0.07. Indicators above 0.07 aredimmed by the microprocessors compared to the indicators below and equalto 0.07.

The power level is displayed in a central numerical power level value121 portion of the electroluminescent display 108. With respect todimming of the electroluminescent display 108, various sectors of theelectroluminescent display 108 are controlled by one or more of themicroprocessors.

As background, electroluminescent display technology uses AC current tolight up specific segments on a particular display. When a segment islit, it becomes visible and user can interact with it. However, whenuser interaction is made with a particular segment, it is difficult tovisualize selections or change in settings on the lit display.

In order to make the process simpler and easier for the user to makeselections and interact with the display user interface, the presenttechnology provides methods of dimming a particular segment. By dimmingone or more segments of the display while simultaneously brighteningother segments, light intensity can be selectively changed and the usercan visually apprehend the change.

FIG. 3A illustrates characters or facets, such as increments, of theuser interface that are black (indicating full brightness) and some thatare light gray (dimmed). The arch reflects a change when user selects anoption to increase power where the segment changes from dimmer to fullbrightness, demonstrating to the user this particular selection wasmade. The central numerical power level value 121 portion of theelectroluminescent display 108 is located within the power indicatordial 112. The dial 112 comprises power indicator dial increments 141that ring the central numerical power level value 121. Portions of thepower indicator dial increments 141, such as portion 143, can beilluminated at a power level that is greater than a power level used toilluminate portion 145 of the power indicator dial increments 141.

Electroluminescent technology requires an AC form of energy to beapplied to the segments to produce light. The microprocessors for theelectroluminescent display 108 apply a positive and negative pulse at aspecific voltage, at a certain frequency, which causes one or moresegments to be illuminated. Each pulse can be delivered at a certainpulse width, but the total period of the positive and negative pulse canbe adjusted. Increasing or decreasing the total period of the pulses,changes the frequency and causes the segment to be brighter or dimmer (adifferential change in luminance).

The microprocessors change dimming on each display segment by increasingor decreasing a frequency of energy pulsing through a pulse skippingscheme. The pulse skipping scheme allows for pulses to be skipped in thesubsequent cycles, which in turn changes the frequency of energy pulsesresulting in segments being dimmer as more pulses are skipped.

Stated otherwise, the microprocessors cause illumination of lightemitting nodes integrated into the display that provide light to thepower indicator dial 112, as well as other display features. In order toprovide dimming of these light emitting nodes in the sectors, themicroprocessors can be configured to skip or pulse power to lightemitting nodes that are selected for dimming relative to the lightemitting nodes that are selected to be illuminated. It will beunderstood that the microprocessors can address individual lightemitting nodes, which function similarly to a pixel of a video display.Thus, each light emitting node can be addressed using a channel. Themicroprocessors can pulse energy to individual light emitting nodesusing these dedicated channels. The channels can also be referred to asan electrical trace. The traces extend in vertical lines within theelectroluminescent display 108.

The microprocessors can be configured to maintain an energy pulse ratefor the light emitting nodes that are selected to be illuminated andthen pulse the light emitting nodes that are selected to be dimmed on aschedule, such as only every sixth cycle. One of ordinary skill in theart will appreciate that other pulse schedules and cycles can beutilized based on the desired luminescence differential betweenilluminated light emitting nodes and dimmed light emitting nodes.Example code/instructions that can be executed by the microprocessorsfor the electroluminescent display 108 to selectively dim theelectroluminescent display 108 are found in FIG. 7.

FIG. 3B illustrates a section of the electroluminescent display 108. Inone embodiment, the electroluminescent display 108 is constructed from aglass substrate 302. To create luminescent segments a plurality of tracelines, such as trace line 304 are formed on the electroluminescentdisplay 108 through deposition of a material such as indium tin oxide orother conductive material. The traces can be formed by the masking ofthe glass substrate 302 to create GUI elements, such as the powerindicator dial 112 or other characters/icons that are to be illuminated.In some embodiments, portions of the traces that correspond to thecharacters/icons are coated with a material that illuminates when anelectrical charge is applied. For example, the trace lines that form thepower level digits 306 are covered or coated with phosphor compound.When an electrical charge is applied to the traces by themicroprocessors the phosphor produces light. Thus, the terms “lightemitting segment” refers to a portion of a trace that comprises theluminescent material, such as phosphor.

As mentioned above, a tip of the laser surgical handpiece device 106 canbe illuminated. When performing surgical oral procedures, one of themost difficult challenges is visibility for the clinician. Often times,when procedures are performed in the back of the oral cavity it presentsan additional set of challenges to the oral surgeon, as the lack oflight decreases the surgical site visibility making it more difficultfor the surgeon.

In order to improve site visibility and efficacy during an oral surgicalprocedure, we have created a transparent disposable tip that hosts a setof LED lights for proper illumination of the oral cavity. Thisdisposable tip holds an optical fiber which delivers electrical energyduring the surgical procedure. Because the disposable tip istransparent, it allows the LED light to pass thru and illuminate thesurgical site.

A plastic sleeve holds the electronics for the LED which attaches to analuminum hand piece. This aluminum hand piece threads into the plasticsecuring the LED system in place. The disposable tip threads into thealuminum piece just in front of the LED. Because the disposable tip istransparent, it allows light to pass through making this surgical handlebecome similar to a flashlight.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example laser surgical handpiece device 106 thatcomprises an interchangeable/disposable tip 120 and a tubular body 122.The interchangeable/disposable tip 120 comprises a sheath tip 126, afiber optic conduit 128 extending through the sheath tip 126, a lightemitting cap 130, and an optical ferrule 132. The light emitting cap 130can comprise an at least partially transparent plastic material thatallows light emitted by a light source 136, such as an LED to passthrough and illuminate an area forward of the sheath tip 126 and fiberoptic conduit 128. In one embodiment, an LED is coupled with a lightsource 136 and positioned within the tubular body 122. The opticalferrule 132 directs light emitted by the light source into the fiberoptic conduit 128.

According to some embodiments, the light source 136 can be selectivelycontrolled from the control panel 104 to selectively adjust a luminanceof the least partially transparent tip. That is, the light emitted bythe light source 136 can be adjusted by the end user to a desiredluminance level.

In some embodiments the interchangeable/disposable tip 120 comprisesfiber tip 140 that is pre-initiated with a pigment. In some embodimentsa black pigment is added to the end of each fiber tip to help focuselectrical energy at the tip. Procedures that require removal or cuttingof soft tissue can employ an initiated tip, whereas some procedures thatcall for an un-initiated tip, such as Aphthous Ulcer treatment where notissue is being removed, do not require a pre-initiated tip. When aprocedure calls for an uninitiated tip, the user can rub off the pigmentat the end of the fiber tip 140 with gauze and isopropyl alcohol. Again,not all soft-tissue procedures require an initiated, or darkened, tipand contact with tissue. Those procedures that do not require tissuecontact will use a fiber tip that is not initiated, because to beeffective in non-contact mode, electrical energy must flow unimpededfrom the tip into the target tissues. While the above sections describethe specific components and construction of example apparatuses of thepresent disclosure, the following sections describe examplemethodologies that relate to the use and/or operation of exampleapparatuses of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an example method 500 executed by themicroprocessor of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the methodincludes a step 502 of displaying selectable procedure options thatcorrespond to a plurality of operational modes that each comprisesunique combinations of operational settings for a specific medicalprocedure. The plurality of operational modes and pre-configuredsettings are displayed on the electroluminescent display.

The method further comprises a step 504 of receiving user input such asa user scrolling through the plurality of operational modes using inputson the control panel (or in a selectable dial indicator displayed on theelectroluminescent display). In response, the method includes a step 506of displaying a preview of selected operational settings on theelectroluminescent display.

In one embodiment, the power level of the operational settings isdisplayed within a selectable dial indicator displayed on theelectroluminescent display.

When selected, the method further includes a step 508 of selectivelyadjusting the power level of the laser source based on touch-based inputreceived by the selectable dial indicator. This allows a user to finetune device settings if the user desires to change any of the selectedoperational settings. Thus, the operational settings providegeneralized, procedure-based settings; the user can then fine tune theseoperational settings for the patient. In some embodiments, theselectable dial indicator comprises power indicator dial increments thatring a central numerical power level value display. These dialincrements are selectable by the user to set or fine tune a power level.

When the user has chosen selected operational settings for theapparatus, the method includes a step 510 of selectively illuminating aportion of the power indicator dial increments that correspond to thepower level at a first luminance level, while remaining power indicatordial increments are not illuminated or are illuminated with a secondluminance level that is less than the first luminance level.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an example method 600 for controlling anelectroluminescent display. For context, the electroluminescent displayis comprised of a plurality of light emitting segments. In someembodiments groups of light emitting segments are arranged in lineswithin the electroluminescent display. These lines form characters,icons, or other representations of the display.

The light emitting segments comprise portions of the traces that have aluminescent coating (such as phosphor). In some embodiments, each of thetraces is addressed to the microprocessor. In one embodiment, the methodcomprises a step 602 of addressing each of the traces such that themicroprocessor can send pulses to each of the traces and therefore intothe plurality of light emitting segments of each of the individualtraces.

The method comprises a step 604 of receiving user input such as aselection of an operation mode/setting or user input on theelectroluminescent display, such as when the user taps or swipes acrossthe selectable dial indicator displayed on the electroluminescentdisplay that controls a power level of the apparatus. Thus, theelectroluminescent display can comprise a touchscreen layer that isconstructed from suitable touchscreen display technology that would beknown to one of ordinary skill in the art with the present disclosurebefore them.

In one embodiment, the method includes a step 606 of selectivelyadjusting a luminance of the plurality of light emitting segments byapplying positive and negative pulses at a specific voltage and at afrequency to the traces that correspond to the light emitting segmentsthat are to be adjusted. As mentioned above, the positive and negativepulses have a selected pulse width, further wherein a length of thepositive and negative pulses are selectively adjusted by themicroprocessor.

In some embodiments, the positive and negative pulses of electricalenergy have a fixed pulse width and an adjustable frequency. In one ormore embodiments, a period of the positive and negative pulses areselectively controlled by a microprocessor, which effectively changesthe frequency of the electrical energy pulses.

The method includes a step 608 of selectively dimming the plurality oflight emitting segments using a pulse skipping scheme. This selectivedimming allows for portions of the segments to be illuminated whileother portions of the segments are illuminated less or not at all.Again, the power level for a portion of the segments is set at a firstluminance level, while other segments are not illuminated or areilluminated with a second luminance level that is less than the firstluminance level. According to some embodiments, the method includes astep 610 of pulse skipping in subsequent cycles, which changes afrequency of energy pulses resulting in a portion of the light emittingsegments being dimmer as more pulses are skipped.

As noted above, an interchangeable/disposable tip used in embodiments ofthe present disclosure comprises fiber tip that is pre-initiated with apigment. In some embodiments, the fiber tip includes a terminal end of afiber optic element or cable. Some embodiments the fiber tip ispre-initiated by dipping the terminal end of a fiber optic element intoan ink or ink bearing solution. In various embodiments, the ink solutioncomprises a carrier liquid with a dark pigment mixed therein. Thepigment selected can vary with respect to its hue or opaqueness. Forexample, in one embodiment, the dark pigment is black. Other hues ofdark pigment can also be utilized such as purple, dark purple, navy, orother similar colors.

The black pigment is added to the terminal end of the fiber tip to helpfocus laser energy at a terminal end of the fiber tip. Procedures thatrequire removal or cutting of soft tissue may utilize a pre-initiatedtip. To ensure that the fiber tip stays initiated when wiping the fibertip with isopropyl alcohol before a procedure, a user can activate andfire the laser at one Watt of average power for one to two seconds oftime prior to wiping the pre-initiated fiber tip. This action ensuresthat the pre-initiation does not wipe off during the cleaning process.

FIG. 8A is a flowchart of an example method for pre-initiating a fibertip. The method includes a step 802 of preparing or obtaining an inksolution that comprises a dark pigment. The method can include a step804 of selecting the dark pigment that will be used to create the inksolution.

Next, the method includes a step 806 of placing a fiber tip of a fiberoptic element into the ink solution and allowing the fiber tip to dry.According to some embodiments, the method includes a step 808 ofadhering the dark pigment to the fiber tip by directing laser energythrough the fiber optic element at a predetermined power for a period oftime. This process ensures that the dark pigment adheres to the fibertip without igniting the fiber tip. FIG. 8B illustrates an exampledisposable tip 810 that comprises a fiber element 812 having a fiber tip814. An enlarged view 816 illustrates a portion of the fiber tip 814that has been pre-initiated with a dark pigment 818.

FIG. 9A is a flowchart of another example method for pre-initiating afiber tip. The method includes a step 902 of preparing or obtaining adark pigment substrate or carbon paste. Next, the method includes a step904 of pre-heating a fiber tip by directing laser energy through thefiber optic element at a predetermined power for a period of time. Insome embodiments, the method includes a step 906 of placing thepre-heated fiber tip into contact with the dark pigment substrate orcarbon paste to embed a dark pigment into the fiber tip. According tosome embodiments, the user can rub the fiber tip on articulating orflexible film (such as the wax paper noted above) while firing the laseron a low power setting. The articulating film can include the darkpigment substrate disclosed above.

FIG. 9B illustrates a pre-initiated a fiber tip 908 of a fiber opticelement 910 (only a portion of the fiber optic element 910 that includesthe fiber tip 908 is illustrated) produced by an etching process. Thefiber tip 908 is pre-initiated using a substrate 912 that comprises adark pigment 914. For example, the dark pigment 914 can be disposed on awax paper substrate. In another embodiment, a non-toxic carbon paste(e.g., dark pigment) is utilized. To apply the dark pigment, laserenergy is directed through the fiber optic element 910 at apredetermined power for a period of time to warm the fiber tip 908 to atemperature of approximately 90 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, inclusive.The fiber tip 908 is applied to the pigmented wax paper or non-toxiccarbon paste. Due to the pre-heating of the fiber tip 908, the darkpigment 914 is etched onto the fiber tip 908. That is, as the fiber tip908 begins to melt or otherwise experience a phase change, the darkpigment 914 melds with the material of the fiber tip 908, therebyembedding the dark pigment 914 into the fiber tip 908.

FIG. 10A illustrates another embodiment of the present disclosure wherea terminal end 1002 of a fiber tip 1004 of a can be pre-initiated with adark pigment using a push or pull fiber patch 1006 that comprises a darkpigment such as an ink solution or a carbon paste. When the fiber tip1004 is inserted into the push or pull fiber patch 1006, the darkpigment is released onto the fiber tip 1004. For example, the push orpull fiber patch 1006 could comprise a sack filled with a dark pigmentbearing solution or composition 1010. The fiber tip 1004 is insertedinto the sack to rupture the sack and release the dark pigment bearingsolution or composition 1010.

To cure the dark pigment on the fiber tip, the fiber tip with darkpigment can be exposed to a specific wavelength of light for a period oftime. In one embodiment, a light emitting diode (LED) is coupled to thefiber optic element. The LED causes the fiber optic element, andtherefore the fiber tip to emit light at a specific wavelength to curethe dark pigment. In various embodiments, the dark pigment bearingsolution or composition of the push or pull fiber patch comprises acatalyst curing agent that allows the dark pigment to cure to the fibertip using white light.

FIG. 10B is a flowchart of an example method that includes a step 1012of preparing or obtaining a push or pull fiber patch that comprises adark pigment. As noted above, the push or pull fiber patch couldcomprise a sack comprising a composition having a dark pigment. The sackcould be a membrane of thin plastic or polymeric material. The methodincludes a step 1014 of inserting a fiber tip of a fiber optic elementinto the push or pull fiber patch to rupture or breach the push or pullfiber patch, allowing the dark pigment within the push or pull fiberpatch to coat the fiber tip with the dark pigment. Next, the methodincludes a step 1016 of illuminating the fiber tip that is coated withthe dark pigment with a specific wavelength of light that is emitted bya light emitting diode or other similar light emitting element. Step1016 is utilized to cure the dark pigment to the fiber tip. Thewavelength of light selected can vary according to the attributes of thedark pigment.

As noted above, the composition that is in the push or pull fiber patchcan further include a catalyst curing agent. When the catalyst curingagent is present in the push or pull fiber patch, a wavelength of lightin the white light portion of the light spectrum can be used to cure thedark pigment onto the fiber tip.

In addition to the methods for creating pre-initiated tips disclosed inthe embodiments of FIGS. 8-10, the present disclosure also contemplatesvarious tip illumination embodiments. For example, in FIG. 11, a fibertip 1100 can comprise a frosted and/or translucent sleeve 1102. In someembodiments, the frosted and/or translucent sleeve 1102 is an annularplastic or polymeric ring of material that fits over the fiber tip 1100of a fiber optic element 1101. The translucent sleeve 1102 can beslidably received onto the fiber tip 1100, while allowing a terminal endof the fiber tip 1100 to extend below the translucent sleeve 1102. Insome embodiments, this terminal end is pre-initiated as disclosed above.

In some embodiments, the translucent plastic material can comprise acolored pigment that allows translucent plastic material to act as alight filter. In some embodiments, based on the colored pigmentincorporated into the translucent sleeve 1102, the fiber tip 1100 canemulate colors from wavelengths ranging from approximately 300 nm up to1000 nm, inclusive. When the fiber tip 1100 emits light generated by alight source, the light passes through the translucent sleeve 1102 ofthe fiber tip 1100. The light emitted by the fiber tip 1100 is coloredbased on pigment within the translucent sleeve 1102. Various colors canbe used for specific medical applications. For instance, the translucentplastic material can produce a green light that helps detectcarcinogenic cells. In some embodiments, an LED light source (see lightsource 136 of FIG. 4 as an example). In some embodiments, the LED lightsource can comprise any of a QLED (quantum light emitting diode), anOLED (an organic light emitting diode), a QDOT (quantum dot) LED, or LEDranging from 300 nm to 1000 nm of the visible and invisible spectrum. Insome embodiments, the fiber tip 1100 can also be pre-initiated using anyof the embodiments disclosed above to dispose a dark pigment 1104thereon. In some embodiments, translucent sleeve 1102 can be utilizedwithout the dark pigment 1104.

In FIG. 12, the fiber tip 1100 of FIG. 11 can also comprise one or moreperforated hole or apertures, such as aperture 1106 fabricated into thetranslucent plastic sleeve 1102. The apertures 1106 create a vacuum thatsuctions smoke during laser procedure. In various embodiments, theapertures 1106 are small holes positioned around the fiber tip 1100. Insome embodiments, the apertures 1106 extend around the fiber tip 1100 in360 degrees pattern to create a vacuum around the fiber tip 1100 thatcaptures plumes of carbonization 1108 created during laser vaporizationof a tissue 1110. In some embodiments, each of the holes or aperturesextends through the body of the fiber tip 1100 so as to provide alateral passage or path through the fiber tip 1100.

FIGS. 13A-13C collectively illustrate an example disposable tip 1300.The disposable tip 1300 can be configured similarly to theinterchangeable/disposable tip 120 of FIG. 4 with the exception that atranslucent cap 1302 of the disposable tip 1300 is provided withperforations or apertures, such as aperture 1304. The aperture 1304provides a path for communication of fluids or gases such as plumes ofcarbonization created during laser vaporization of a tissue by a fibertip 1306 of the disposable tip 1300. Broadly stated, the aperturescreate a vacuum that suctions smoke during laser procedure. In someembodiments, the apertures create a vacuum that captures plumes ofcarbonization created during laser vaporization of a tissue. The plumesof carbonization are drawn into the translucent cap 1302, through theapertures and pass through a back end 1308 of the translucent cap 1302.

In some embodiments, the translucent cap 1302 comprises a coloredpigment incorporated into the material of the translucent cap 1302.Generally, the translucent cap 1302 can emulate colors from wavelengthsranging from approximately 300 nm up to 1000 nm, inclusive. As withother embodiments, the fiber tip 1306 can be pre-initiated using any ofthe methods disclosed above.

FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic representation of an example machine in theform of a computer system 1, within which a set of instructions forcausing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologiesdiscussed herein may be executed. In various example embodiments, themachine operates as a standalone device or may be connected (e.g.,networked) to other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine mayoperate in the capacity of a server or a client machine in aserver-client network environment, or as a peer machine in apeer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The machine may be arobotic construction marking device, a base station, a personal computer(PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a personal digital assistant(PDA), a cellular telephone, a portable music player (e.g., a portablehard drive audio device such as an Moving Picture Experts Group AudioLayer 3 (MP3) player), a web appliance, a network router, switch orbridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions(sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by thatmachine. Further, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term“machine” shall also be taken to include any collection of machines thatindividually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructionsto perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein.

The example computer system 1 includes a processor or multipleprocessors 5 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphicsprocessing unit (GPU), or both), and a main memory 10 and static memory15, which communicate with each other via a bus 20. The computer system1 may further include a video display 35 (e.g., a liquid crystal display(LCD)). The computer system 1 may also include an alpha-numeric inputdevice(s) 30 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device (e.g., amouse), a voice recognition or biometric verification unit (not shown),a drive unit 37 (also referred to as disk drive unit), a signalgeneration device 40 (e.g., a speaker), and a network interface device45. The computer system 1 may further include a data encryption module(not shown) to encrypt data.

The drive unit 37 includes a computer or machine-readable medium 50 onwhich is stored one or more sets of instructions and data structures(e.g., instructions 55) embodying or utilizing any one or more of themethodologies or functions described herein. The instructions 55 mayalso reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 10and/or within the processors 5 during execution thereof by the computersystem 1. The main memory 10 and the processors 5 may also constitutemachine-readable media.

The instructions 55 may further be transmitted or received over anetwork via the network interface device 45 utilizing any one of anumber of well-known transfer protocols (e.g., Hyper Text TransferProtocol (HTTP)). While the machine-readable medium 50 is shown in anexample embodiment to be a single medium, the term “computer-readablemedium” should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media(e.g., a centralized or distributed database and/or associated cachesand servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term“computer-readable medium” shall also be taken to include any mediumthat is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructionsfor execution by the machine and that causes the machine to perform anyone or more of the methodologies of the present application, or that iscapable of storing, encoding, or carrying data structures utilized by orassociated with such a set of instructions. The term “computer-readablemedium” shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to,solid-state memories, optical and magnetic media, and carrier wavesignals. Such media may also include, without limitation, hard disks,floppy disks, flash memory cards, digital video disks, random accessmemory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), and the like. The exampleembodiments described herein may be implemented in an operatingenvironment comprising software installed on a computer, in hardware, orin a combination of software and hardware.

Not all components of the computer system 1 are required and thusportions of the computer system 1 can be removed if not needed, such asInput/Output (I/O) devices (e.g., input device(s) 30). One skilled inthe art will recognize that the Internet service may be configured toprovide Internet access to one or more computing devices that arecoupled to the Internet service, and that the computing devices mayinclude one or more processors, buses, memory devices, display devices,input/output devices, and the like. Furthermore, those skilled in theart may appreciate that the Internet service may be coupled to one ormore databases, repositories, servers, and the like, which may beutilized in order to implement any of the embodiments of the disclosureas described herein.

As used herein, the term “engine”, “system”, “client”, “module”,“controller or microprocessor”, or “application” may also refer to anyof an application-specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), an electroniccircuit, a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes one ormore software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit,and/or other suitable components that provide the describedfunctionality.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of allmeans or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended toinclude any structure, material, or act for performing the function incombination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. Thedescription of the present technology has been presented for purposes ofillustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive orlimited to the present technology in the form disclosed. Manymodifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the presenttechnology. Exemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order tobest explain the principles of the present technology and its practicalapplication, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art tounderstand the present technology for various embodiments with variousmodifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Aspects of the present technology are described above with reference toflowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus(systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of thepresent technology. It will be understood that each block of theflowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations ofblocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can beimplemented by computer program instructions. These computer programinstructions may be provided to a processor of a general purposecomputer, special purpose computer, or other programmable dataprocessing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions,which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmabledata processing apparatus, create means for implementing thefunctions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block orblocks.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computerreadable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable dataprocessing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particularmanner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readablemedium produce an article of manufacture including instructions whichimplement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks.

The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer,other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to causea series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, otherprogrammable apparatus or other devices to produce a computerimplemented process such that the instructions which execute on thecomputer or other programmable apparatus provide processes forimplementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate thearchitecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementationsof systems, methods and computer program products according to variousembodiments of the present technology. In this regard, each block in theflowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portionof code, which comprises one or more executable instructions forimplementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be notedthat, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in theblock may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, twoblocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantiallyconcurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverseorder, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be notedthat each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, andcombinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchartillustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-basedsystems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations ofspecial purpose hardware and computer instructions.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “anembodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic described in connection with the embodiment is includedin at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, theappearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” or“according to one embodiment” (or other phrases having similar import)at various places throughout this specification are not necessarily allreferring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features,structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner inone or more embodiments. Furthermore, depending on the context ofdiscussion herein, a singular term may include its plural forms and aplural term may include its singular form. Similarly, a hyphenated term(e.g., “on-demand”) may be occasionally interchangeably used with itsnon-hyphenated version (e.g., “on demand”), a capitalized entry (e.g.,“Bolt”) may be interchangeably used with its non-capitalized version(e.g., “bolt”), a plural term may be indicated with or without anapostrophe (e.g., PE's or PEs), and an italicized term (e.g., “N+1”) maybe interchangeably used with its non-italicized version (e.g., “N+1”).Such occasional interchangeable uses shall not be consideredinconsistent with each other.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. Asused herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify thepresence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements,and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of oneor more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements,components, and/or groups thereof.

It is noted at the outset that the terms “coupled,” “connected”,“connecting,” “mechanically connected,” etc., are used interchangeablyherein to generally refer to the condition of beingmechanically/physically connected. If any disclosures are incorporatedherein by reference and such incorporated disclosures conflict in partand/or in whole with the present disclosure, then to the extent ofconflict, and/or broader disclosure, and/or broader definition of terms,the present disclosure controls. If such incorporated disclosuresconflict in part and/or in whole with one another, then to the extent ofconflict, the later-dated disclosure controls.

The terminology used herein can imply direct or indirect, full orpartial, temporary or permanent, immediate or delayed, synchronous orasynchronous, action or inaction. For example, when an element isreferred to as being “on,” “connected” or “coupled” to another element,then the element can be directly on, connected or coupled to the otherelement and/or intervening elements may be present, including indirectand/or direct variants. In contrast, when an element is referred to asbeing “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to another element,there are no intervening elements present.

Although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describevarious elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, theseelements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should notnecessarily be limited by such terms. These terms are only used todistinguish one element, component, region, layer or section fromanother element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a firstelement, component, region, layer or section discussed below could betermed a second element, component, region, layer or section withoutdeparting from the teachings of the present disclosure.

Example embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein withreference to illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediatestructures) of the present disclosure. As such, variations from theshapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturingtechniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, the exampleembodiments of the present disclosure should not be construed asnecessarily limited to the particular shapes of regions illustratedherein, but are to include deviations in shapes that result, forexample, from manufacturing.

Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can be formed from a same,structurally continuous piece, such as being unitary, and/or beseparately manufactured and/or connected, such as being an assemblyand/or modules. Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can bemanufactured via any manufacturing processes, whether additivemanufacturing, subtractive manufacturing and/or other any other types ofmanufacturing. For example, some manufacturing processes include threedimensional (3D) printing, laser cutting, computer numerical control(CNC) routing, milling, pressing, stamping, extrusion, vacuum forming,hydroforming, injection molding, lithography and/or others.

Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can include, whetherpartially and/or fully, a solid, including a metal, a mineral, aceramic, an amorphous solid, such as glass, a glass ceramic, an organicsolid, such as wood and/or a polymer, such as rubber, a compositematerial, a semiconductor, a nano-material, a biomaterial and/or anycombinations thereof. Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, caninclude, whether partially and/or fully, a coating, including aninformational coating, such as ink, an adhesive coating, a melt-adhesivecoating, such as vacuum seal and/or heat seal, a release coating, suchas tape liner, a low surface energy coating, an optical coating, such asfor tint, color, hue, saturation, tone, shade, transparency,translucency, non-transparency, luminescence, anti-reflection and/orholographic, a photo-sensitive coating, an electronic and/or thermalproperty coating, such as for passivity, insulation, resistance orconduction, a magnetic coating, a water-resistant and/or waterproofcoating, a scent coating and/or any combinations thereof.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by oneof ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Theterms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should beinterpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning inthe context of the relevant art and should not be interpreted in anidealized and/or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Furthermore, relative terms such as “below,” “lower,” “above,” and“upper” may be used herein to describe one element's relationship toanother element as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Suchrelative terms are intended to encompass different orientations ofillustrated technologies in addition to the orientation depicted in theaccompanying drawings. For example, if a device in the accompanyingdrawings is turned over, then the elements described as being on the“lower” side of other elements would then be oriented on “upper” sidesof the other elements. Similarly, if the device in one of the figures isturned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elementswould then be oriented “above” the other elements. Therefore, theexample terms “below” and “lower” can, therefore, encompass both anorientation of above and below.

Additionally, components described as being “first” or “second” can beinterchanged with one another in their respective numbering unlessclearly contradicted by the teachings herein.

While various embodiments have been described above, it should beunderstood that they have been presented by way of example only, and notlimitation. The descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of thetechnology to the particular forms set forth herein. Thus, the breadthand scope of a preferred embodiment should not be limited by any of theabove-described exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that theabove description is illustrative and not restrictive. To the contrary,the present descriptions are intended to cover such alternatives,modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit andscope of the technology as defined by the appended claims and otherwiseappreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The scope of thetechnology should, therefore, be determined not with reference to theabove description, but instead should be determined with reference tothe appended claims along with their full scope of equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A device, comprising: a handpiece devicecomprising: a tubular body; and an insert that fits within the tubularbody, the insert having a terminal end that comprises: a receiver; alight source disposed on a terminal end of the insert, the light sourcebeing offset from the receiver; and a disposable tip that couples withthe terminal end of the receiver, the disposable tip comprising: anoptical ferrule that couples with the receiver of the insert, whereinthe opposite side of the optical ferrule of the receiver is configuredto receive a fiber optic conduit and wherein the receiver is coupled toan optical cable; and a light emitting cap that receives light from thelight source of the insert and illuminates a surgical site, the lightemitting cap comprising a first set of apertures that are positioned ina circular pattern around a fiber tip of the disposable tip, the firstset of apertures extending through a body of the light emitting cap andproviding a path for communication of fumes into the tubular body. 2.The device according to claim 1, further comprising a centrally locatedfiber that emits laser output of a laser source, the centrally locatedfiber extending through the terminal end of the insert.
 3. The deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein the light source is capable of beingconfigured to selectively adjust a luminance of the light emitting cap.4. The device according to claim 1, further wherein the light emittingcap is at least partially transparent.
 5. The device according to claim1, wherein the disposable tip further comprises a sheath tip extendingfrom the light emitting cap and a fiber optic conduit extending from thesheath tip, wherein the fiber optic conduit directs laser output emittedby a laser source into the fiber tip.
 6. The device according to claim5, wherein the fiber tip is pre-initiated with a dark pigment.
 7. Thedevice according to claim 6, wherein the dark pigment is selectivelyremovable using an alcohol.
 8. The device according to claim 7, furthercomprising a push or pull fiber patch that includes the dark pigment,wherein the dark pigment is transferred to the fiber tip when the fibertip is inserted into the push or pull fiber patch.
 9. The deviceaccording to claim 5, wherein the fiber tip further comprises a frostedor translucent material having a colored pigment, the frosted ortranslucent material producing light having a hue corresponding to thecolored pigment when the light source is activated.
 10. A device,comprising: a transparent light emitting cap having a substantiallyconical shape and a rear cap end, the transparent light emitting capconfigured to couple with a tubular body including an insert with areceiver positioned on a first terminal end of the insert; an opticalferrule extending from the rear cap end, the optical ferrule configuredto receive an optical fiber on one end and connect to the receiver; asheath tip extending from the transparent light emitting cap; a fiberoptic conduit extending from the sheath tip; and a fiber tip disposed ona terminal end of the fiber optic conduit, wherein the fiber opticconduit is connected to one side of the optical ferrule and the otherside of the optical ferrule is configured to receive from the receiverelectrical energy received through an optical cable coupled to a lasersource, wherein the transparent light emitting cap comprises a first setof apertures and a second set of apertures that each form a circularpattern around the fiber tip, the first set of apertures and the secondset of apertures extending through a body of the transparent lightemitting cap and providing paths for communication of fumes into thetubular body, the second set of apertures forming a concentric circlearound the first set of apertures.
 11. The device according to claim 10,wherein the device is threadably received by the insert, the insertcomprising a receiver that couples with a threaded, rear terminal end ofthe transparent light emitting cap.
 12. The device according to claim10, further comprising a light source that provides light to thetransparent light emitting cap.
 13. The device according to claim 12,wherein the light source is capable of being configured to selectivelyadjust a luminance of the transparent light emitting cap.
 14. A method,comprising: obtaining a disposable tip comprising: a fiber optic elementhaving a fiber tip; an optical ferrule configured to couple with areceiver of an insert, wherein the opposite side of the optical ferruleis coupled with the fiber optic element; and a transparent lightemitting cap having a substantially conical shape and configured tocouple with a tubular body; pre-initiating the fiber tip with a darkpigment comprising an ink; processing a tissue with the fiber tip; andremoving fumes using a first set of apertures that are positioned in acircular pattern around the fiber tip, the first set of aperturesextending through a body of the transparent light emitting cap andproviding a path for communication of the fumes into the tubular body.15. The method according to claim 14, wherein pre-initiating comprises:obtaining a substrate that comprises the dark pigment; and exposing thefiber tip to the substrate to transfer the dark pigment onto the fibertip.
 16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising whereinthe dark pigment is mixed with a catalyst curing agent.
 17. The methodaccording to claim 14, wherein pre-initiating comprises: obtaining apush or pull fiber patch that includes the dark pigment; andtransferring the dark pigment to the fiber tip by inserting the fibertip into the push or pull fiber patch.
 18. The method according to claim14, further comprising pre-heating the fiber tip prior to pre-initiatingthe fiber tip with the dark pigment.
 19. The method according to claim14, further comprising curing the dark pigment by exposing the darkpigment of the fiber tip to a specific wavelength of light.